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You can hardly make a better debut. Lionel Messi came into action for the first time on Friday night for the American Inter Miami and was immediately decisive. The Argentinian scored the winning goal in minute 94 in a way that only he can: with a wonderful free kick. Inter Miami won 2-1 against the Mexican Cruz Azul in the first game of the Leagues Cup thanks to the unparalleled goal.
It is still a while to wait for Lionel Messi’s MLS debut, but ‘The GOAT’ was already allowed to make an appearance in the game against the Mexican Cruz Azul on Friday night. That was in the first match of the Leagues Cup, a tournament between American and Mexican clubs. Messi did start on the bench: the Argentinian only joined the group after vacation this week and was not yet 100 percent fit.
Shortly after the break, the time had come: in the 52nd minute, the Argentinian was allowed to make his debut for Inter Miami. The Americans were leading 1-0 at that moment.. A deafening cheer sounded from the stands. And that cheer resounded with every ball touch of the Argentinian. But his substitution was not immediately successful, because ten minutes later Cruz Azul equalized.
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After that things went better for the Americans. Five minutes before the end, Messi almost scored his first goal for Inter Miami, but he failed face to face with the goalkeeper of the Mexicans. Moments later, the Argentinian seemed to immediately unpack with his first assist, but the goal was rightly rejected due to offside.
But then Messi’s big moment was yet to come… In minute 94 Inter Miami got a free kick in an interesting place, then they immediately know who will place themselves behind the ball. Messi fired the free kick phenomenally into the top left corner and sent the fans of Inter Miami into ecstasy. The Argentinian could not wish for a better entry.
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Stars
The Argentinian’s big debut also attracted many stars to Fort Lauderdale. NBA legend LeBron James hugged the world champion before the party. Tennis icon Serena Williams and American Football goat Tom Brady were spotted in the stands. Other celebrities such as Kim Kardashian, Marc Anthony and Becky G also came to witness the debut of ‘de Vlo’.
In less than a month, Messi will make his debut in the MLS and that will be welcome. David Beckham’s team is last in the ‘Eastern Conference’, the series of teams from the eastern US.
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